Money Management Tips

Control your Cash Flow Use limitations: These materials may be used only for nonprofit, noncommercial educational purposes. These materials may not be used in connection with any sale, advertisement, endorsement, or promotion of any service, product, person, or business and may not be sold or offered for sale.

1

Objectives

• Become financially independent and self-reliant.

• Take control of your money so it doesn’t control you.

• Determine your financial needs for the future.

2

Getting Started

• Set SMART goals.

▫ Pay Yourself First • ▫ ▫ Take action until your goals become reality.

▫ Set limits.

Get organized.

Protect your identity.

3

Checking Accounts

• Easy, safe to use, and less expensive than check cashing services.

• Research to find the best bank or credit union for you.

• Keep track of your expenses so you don’t overdraw your account 4

Jobs in College

• • • • Working during college can help you: ▫ ▫ Increase spending money.

Build your resume.

▫ Take less in student loans.

Look for jobs on campus that are flexible with students’ schedules.

Turn a hobby into a money-making endeavor.

Take advantage of the career center. 5

Cutting Expenses

• • • • Don’t let your friends pressure you into unnecessary spending.

Recognize needs and wants.

Look for ways to save money.

▫ Use student discounts.

▫ ▫ Take public transportation, walk, or bike.

Look for student discounts on car insurance.

Create a budget and stick to it.

6

Ways to Stretch a Dollar

• • • • • • • Stock up on snacks to avoid vending machines.

Buy used textbooks, clothes, furniture, etc. Cut out costly habits, such as coffee drinks.

Avoid rent-to-own stores, pawnshops, and check-cashing stores. Shop from a list and use coupons. Limit your song, ringtone, and app downloads. Go to free on-campus movies or check out DVDs from the library.

7

Credit and Debt

• Build good credit by paying your bills on time.

• Maintain control of your credit card.

▫ ▫ Have only one credit card account. Shop around for the best rates and fees.

▫ Pay your entire bill each month.

• Seek help sooner than later.

8

Websites

• Prep for College or Workplace ▫ www.cashcourse.org/prep • Spending Habits ▫ www.spendster.org

• Money Management Tips ▫ www.smartaboutmoney.org/40moneytips 9